This is written in the memory of longtime WIOZ disc jockey Emerson Cole, who died in 2012 and whose birthday would have been Sunday. The authors are his daughter and son-in-law.

How do we thank everyone at WIOZ, like Rich and Billy, and David, who always sat in his chair? How do we thank Sandhills Community College for the summer concerts, the tribute on Veterans Day, Tim Haley and the SCC Jazz Band?

How do we thank his Doral Woods neighbors; his dear friends Bob, Toni and Cora; Tom and Jo with their trips to Cornell; Sgt. Penny, who found him; Larry Ellis, who provided spiritual support; and Nancy Whaley, for her kind words and help?

How do we thank Cecile and the staff at No. 7; his golfing buddies; and everyone who helped make Honor Flight happen for him? How do we thank the Carolina Philharmonic, David and Kathy? He so loved the music.

How do we thank the members of The Village Chapel; Dick Gesswein and his prayer group; FirstHealth and Hospice for making his final days so peaceful?

How do we thank the Village Council for Emerson Cole Day (Nov. 15) and lighting the star in the village in his memory (Dec. 7)?

How do we thank so many wonderful people who touched his life? Maybe — just maybe — we just did.

Dianne Cole-Hall

Alan Hall

Pinehurst